Temple Terrace News

Wednesday, January 5, 2005

A Labor of Love

Center Celebrates First Graduation Ceremony

By JOYCE McKENZIE

      Unbeknownst to most, but painfully shameful for many, there’s a silent crisis among us. A 1992 Florida Adult Literacy Survey shows that 20 percent of adults in Hillsborough County age 16 and over function at the state’s lowest reading level, one that’s on par with early elementary age children.

      In Tampa, one out of four adults – 28 percent – fall within that category. Most are unable to read well enough to complete a job application, read a menu, fill out a voting ballot or read a story to a child.

      But, in September 2003, Michelle Tate-Martin, a former Hillsborough County adult education instructor, made it her mission to do what she could to put an end to the epidemic.

      She founded the I Can Adult Literacy Outreach Program, a grassroots nonprofit organization at 5118 N. 56^th St. in Tampa, where she serves as its executive director.

      Under the direction of a community-based board of directors and the support of business partners and volunteers, the center offers people age 16 and older a free reading program, basic education, pre-GED and workforce development training in a one-on-one and small group environment.

      Prior to beginning the program, each student is given an assessment test to determine his or her placement. Students then work at their own pace to improve their reading, writing, math and computer skills. The curriculum also includes a life skills class that focuses on building self-confidence, goal setting, decision making and problem solving.

      The center’s educational team is made up of Tate-Martin, who also serves as literacy program director; board member and volunteer life skills instructor Patricia Botchway; Danielle Morris, an administrative assistant sent last year as a paid intern by Hillsborough Community College who’s returned in a volunteer capacity; and Marjorie Gazvoda, a full-time teacher with more than 40 years experience compliments of the Hillsborough County school system. Other volunteers who’ve completed a video-based, self-directed training program, fill in the gaps.

      Grants, fundraisers and public donations support the organization’s operations. Financial contributors include grants from the Verizon Foundation, Allegany Franciscan Foundation, Wal-Mart Foundation, Scripps Howard (ABC, Channel 28) Foundation, Publix Supermarket Foundation and the Ferman Motor Car Co. In addition, owners of the LeTourneau Executive Center donate a multi-room suite that is used for classrooms, offices, a conference rooms and space for the student-run I Can Charity Snack Shop that sells breakfast, lunch and snack items to the building’s tenants.

      When funds are at a minimum, however, Tate-Martin fills her role regardless of whether or not she is paid. “When I was asked to quit my job with a regular paycheck to do this, it was quite a decision for me to make. In fact, my mother donated the first $100 to get us started,” said Tate-Martin, who admits at times just staying afloat is difficult. “But, it’s really a journey and I’ve had my days of shedding tears of joy from the depth of heart for what we’ve been able to accomplish. I just keep pinching myself because it’s really been a blessing – we’ve defied all odds.”

      In just a year’s time the program, one that Tate-Martin hopes to expand to other area sites, finds itself cramped for space.

      The center has 38 students currently enrolled and a long list of others waiting to participate in the I Can classes. Tate-Martin hosted the center’s first graduation ceremony Dec. 18 in which three students – Palicia Kenner and LaRhonda Chaney celebrated passing the high school competency test required for their high school diplomas and 16-year old Jesse Thompson was presented with a GED completion certificate.

      “I’m really proud,” she said. “They, along with the other students, were able to receive individualized education plans using step-by-step learning modules that incorporate when they need to function independently and successfully in the community and in the workforce,” Tate-Martin said.

      University of South Florida area resident Delores Crafton enrolled in the program last April to improve her below standard math skills. She credits much of her success to her volunteer math tutor William Channer.

      “The most I knew was adding and multiplying, but Mr. Channer opening up a whole new world for me,” said Crafton, who also serves as secretary of the student advisory board. “I’ve leaned you just can’t say ‘I can’t’ in this program.”

      Cassandra Roberts, who dropped out of school in the 10^th grade, came to the center for help in October of 2003. Not only is she thrilled with the progress she’s made but also with the fact she’s been appointed as president of the advisory board.

      “I thank God first. Then I thank Michelle who taught me how to read and Mr. Channer who taught me division and my timestables,” said Roberts, who plans to go into a nursing program after she earns her GED. “They’ve also helped build my self-esteem.”

      Channer, a retired CPA who volunteers his time five days a week to the program, is also grateful for the opportunity to help those who struggle academically.

      “It’s indeed a unique program and I hear and see the students’ development across the board,” he said. “That’s what keeps me coming back.”

      Life skills instructor Botchway has also found the center to be a very gratifying place to spend her time. “They’re so hungry to learn and to be able to give the students what they are looking for is very rewarding,” said Botchway, who was awakened by her students’ personal struggles. “I derive a lot of pleasure out of teaching them the special skills we all need but normally don’t get in school. When they can let go and gain self-esteem then they can have a wide open future.”

      University of South Florida educator Jane Adamson became enthralled with what the program had to offer when she attended its Food Fest, a fundraising event at the center. “I never remember not reading – I love to read and it seemed like a good fit for me,” said Adamson, who now uses her grant-writing skills to generate operating funds and to upgrade the center’s computer lab. “It’s a gift of my time, but it helps multiply and facilitate what they are doing and I love it.”

      The center, according to Tate-Martin, is in need of more volunteers, especially for the daytime classes. Morning class sessions are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon and evening sessions are Tuesday and Thursday from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Call 849-5597 or visit www.icanadultliteracy.org for more information.